Thursday's high reaches only 54 with intermittent rain

Receive the latest stories updates in your inbox

Following last weekend's record-breaking heat wave, temperatures plunged Thursday and will reach a high of only 54 degrees with intermittent rain.

2011's Nastiest Storms in Chicago

Much-needed showers are expected to continue throughout the day, with possible accumulation ranging from a quarter- to a half-inch, according to the National Weather Service. Rain continues Thursday night but tapers off after midnight. Overnight lows are expected to dip to 47.

Expect it to be a cold rain. Northeast winds breezing up to 50 mph will make the chill feel cooler.

Your Photos: Severe Weather Damage

Morning showers start a chilly Friday, but should slow during the day. Highs are expected to reach 64.

The chance of showers goes into Saturday, mainly after 1 p.m., but conditions are predicted to warm to a sunny high of 72.